2. -1694-1778 -Real Name: Francois-Marie Arouet (pen name = Voltaire) -Prolific Writer (collection = 70 volumes) -Main Theme = Freedom of Thought Philosophical Letters on English -Promoted English Thinkers and Scientists -Admired their religious liberty and freedom of press -Backhandedly criticized French Government of the time
3. On Religion -Believed in Toleration -Against Christian View of the World – reason was all that was necessary On Government -Needed an enlightened government to rule a country -fought sloth and stupidity -kept clergy in line -allowed freedom of thought and religion
4. Candide -Most famous work -Satire -Attacked ~war ~religious persecution ~unwarranted optimism about the human condition (He had a pessimistic view towards lasting reform)